The decision by Libya's supreme court to quash death sentences against five Bulgarian nurses and a Palestinian
doctor convicted of infecting children with HIV has been welcomed by politicians in Europe and the US, but relatives of the children are still seeking justice.

The following are a selection of reactions to the court decision:

Bulgarian President Georgi Parvanov

The supreme court's decision confirmed our hope that
justice in this case will prevail... We hope that the quick and
efficient work of the court in recent days will allow the case
to be closed soon.

US state department Spokesman Justin Higgins

Our understanding is this decision is a positive
development since it removes the risk of a death sentence being
carried out. The international community is working with Libya
to find an overall solution. As we have made clear before, we
believe a way should be found to allow the medics to return to
Bulgaria and Palestine.

Emma
Udwin, the European Commission's external relations spokeswoman

It is good news that death sentences against the medical
workers have not been confirmed. We hope today's decision can
lead to a rapid and fair settlement to all concerned.

Trayan Markovski, Bulgarian defence coordinator

This is the best news we could receive on Christmas! It gives
us reasons to be optimistic since we will be allowed to present new
evidence on their innocence.

Tsvetanka Siropoulu, nurse's relative

I do not know what that ruling means. How can I rejoice?
What's the difference - death sentences, lifetime prison terms
or other verdicts - when seven years innocent people are in
jail?

Mohamed Salah, father of infected child

Today's ruling delays further the final verdict on the
cases and extends the suffering of the families. That verdict
hurts their feelings as they see their children dying slowly.

Ramdane Fitouri, chairman of the association of the families of the infected children

There is no doubt this prolongs our suffering but today's
ruling does not mean the death sentences could not be confirmed
again by the lower court. The lower court has the authority to
issue the death sentences again.